Introduction
This patient summary is adapted from the summary on lymphedema written by cancer experts for health professionals. This and other credible information
about cancer treatment, screening, prevention, supportive care, and ongoing trials is available from the National Cancer Institute. Lymphedema is the
buildup of lymph (a fluid that helps fight infection and disease) in the fatty tissues just under the skin. The buildup of lymph causes swelling in specific
areas of the body, usually an arm or leg, with an abnormally large amount of
tissue proteins, chronic inflammation, and thickening and scarring of tissue
under the skin. Lymphedema is a common complication of cancer and cancer
treatment and can result in long-term physical, psychological, and social
issues for patients.
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